Comprehensive Program Evaluation

2020-2022

JCSD has been part of the Iowa DE’s TLC System since its inception in the 2014-15 academic year.The Johnston TLC program has undergone updates throughout the years, and in 2020 initiated a comprehensive review process to reflect current needs and align the program with the district’s newly drafted Strategic Plan. The purpose of the comprehensive program evaluation was to explore the current reality of the district’s TLC program and use findings to guide program revisions and updates to meet evolving district needs and priorities.

Key Findings

Among the teachers, teacher leaders, and administrators who chose to participate in the study, there was a ubiquitous desire for excellence in all facets of teaching, learning, and leading. Five key and often intertwined themes emerged:

  1. The need for credibility, clarity, transparency, and trust

  2. The desire to be proactive rather than reactive

  3. The desire for shared leadership

  4. The need to address burn-out, turnover, staff morale issues

  5. The need for professional learning for those serving in TLC roles

Site Committee Recommendations

  • Current roles and job descriptions needed to be more focused with clearly defined parameters.

  • When revising existing roles and creating new positions, it was important to recognize that building needs differ—a one-size-fits-all approach would not suffice. There needs to be flexibility for roles to adapt or adjust to current needs. However, it was also recommended that non-negotiables be defined to protect the lanes of TLC work.

  • Create pathways for regular, open communication with all staff—certified teachers, TLC personnel, and administrators.

  • Provide more opportunities for leadership for district teachers

  • Ensure that our TLC program is focused on roles that support student and teacher learning and well-being with an emphasis on roles that spend time in the classroom.

  • Provide appropriate professional learning to TLC teachers.